GORE-TEX Professional

Archive for the ‘Armor’ Category

INKAS Powers Into 2025 with All-New Armored Cadillac Escalade!

Wednesday, May 14th, 2025

INKAS® Armored Vehicle Manufacturing is proud to introduce the highly anticipated 2025 Armored Cadillac Escalade — the latest generation of its most iconic and sought-after luxury SUV. Armored with BR6-level protection to stop up to 7.62mm assault rifle ammunition, detonated grenades beneath the vehicle and other life-threatening dangers. The armored Escalade is designed for individuals who find themselves in high-risk situations, government officials, executives, and those who need extra family protection.

As global security continues to be on the rise, the 2025 Armored Cadillac Escalade delivers a serene experience with the feeling of plush leather and peace of mind. The interior includes a generous capacity to seat up to 7 passengers while giving each person room to extend. With no impact on OEM features, this vehicle disguises itself among others yet prevails when it matters the most.

The 2025 armored Escalade delivers both pristine luxury and performance when driving on city streets and rugged terrain. Featuring both a bold and commanding exterior with a seamless modern interior to encapsulate a brand that continues to be an absolute icon.

Armored Protection with Premium Craftsmanship

The INKAS® 2025 Armored Cadillac Escalade is engineered to withstand a plethora of threats with certified ballistic systems and features that create a gapless realm of protection, which ensures no vulnerable points are exposed or accessible.

Complete perimeter armoring, including roof, ceiling, and floor.

Overlap system protection to all door seams and critical joints.

Military-grade multi-layer ballistic glass on all windows.

Reinforced suspension and braking components.

Runflat system in all tires to extend journey distance.

Optional features such as sirens, night vision cameras, escape hatches, and more.

Despite the extensive armoring, INKAS® preserves the Escalade’s luxurious OEM factory finishes and user experience — including ambient lighting, massaging seats, and a high-end sound system.

“GM models sell, but the Cadillac Escalade is a fan favorite for sure. We deliver armored vehicles that meet the needs of our most discerning clients without compromising the original designs.” Arthur Yurovitsky, Vice President, INKAS® Armored Vehicle Manufacturing

2025 GM Lineup Now Available

Alongside the launch of the armored Escalade, INKAS® has officially upgraded all their GM SUVs to the 2025 model year, which includes:

2025 Chevrolet Suburban
2025 GMC Yukon Denali
2025 Chevrolet Tahoe

Each vehicle receives meticulous attention to detail, integration of ballistic protection, and customization options upon request, making the 2025 GM fleet one of the most secure and versatile lineups on the market today.

Global Reach, Personalized Solutions

INKAS® Armored vehicles are fully customizable to suit specific mission requirements or lifestyle preferences. Whether the vehicle is deployed in a volatile region or used discreetly for urban transport, INKAS® ensures reliability, comfort, and safety from any angle. With global reach, the company serves high-profile clients across North America, Latin America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

inkasarmored.com

SOF Week 25 – Crye Precision LPV Slick

Tuesday, May 6th, 2025

The Crye Precision LPV SLICK vest features a low-profile construction that creates a discreet vest system—ideal for covert operations. It’s also available in a tactical version. Look for availability after SHOT Show 2026.

The unique construction enables a nearly seamless profile at the top of the vest when plates are inserted. Designed to provide a lightweight, form-fitting solution that ensures both comfort and concealability, it accommodates both Low-Vis and Level 4 standalone plates, making it adaptable for various operational needs. The top-loaded padded plate closure maximizes comfort, while openings for cable pass-through enhance functionality. Multiple cummerbund attachments offer flexibility and customization for the user.

Offered in sizes Small – XLarge in MultiCam, Ranger Green, Coyote, Black, and Grey.

3DLOOK & Safariland Expand XPERTFIT Revolutionary Sizing Technology for Tactical Armor

Friday, April 18th, 2025

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – 3DLOOK, the leader in AI-powered mobile body scanning technology, partnered with Safariland®, a brand of The Safariland Group, a leading global provider of safety products designed for the public safety, military, professional, and outdoor markets and one of Cadre Holdings, Inc.’s (NYSE: CDRE) (“Cadre”) key brands, are set to expand revolutionary sizing solution, XpertFit. A newly released enhanced version of the XpertFIt solution extends its capabilities to include tactical armor. This latest innovation underscores Safariland’s commitment to continuous advancement while leveraging 3DLOOK’s industry-leading precision in body measurement technology.

3DLOOK and Safariland began their collaboration in 2020, launching XpertFit for Soft Body Armor in 2022. In 2023, Safariland introduced the cutting-edge Apex concealable armor platform, thus elevating Xpertfit’s sizing inclusivity. The latest evolution of this advanced sizing solution now includes the HyperX tactical platform.

The XpertFit platform, powered by 3DLOOK’s patented AI-driven mobile body scanning, provides highly consistent accuracy, repeatability, and an intuitive user experience to ensure the right fit for critical protective gear. With its ability to capture a comprehensive range of precise body measurements, XpertFit empowers agencies and professionals to quickly size individuals precisely, improving operational efficiency and minimizing sizing errors. Given its proven track record for ease of use and high exactitude, XpertFit has enabled Safariland to broaden its footprint, allowing agencies to efficiently size and equip remote end wearers who opt for self-measuring capabilities.

“Our collaboration with Safariland reinforces 3DLOOK’s leadership in AI-driven measuring technology,” said Whitney Cathcart, Co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer of 3DLOOK. “XpertFit is powered by our patented AI-driven mobile body scanning technology, setting a new industry standard for tactical armor fitment. By integrating our cutting-edge scanning capabilities, we enable Safariland to deliver unmatched accuracy and efficiency in the field.”

With the inclusion of tactical body armor, XpertFit continues to deliver next-generation sizing technology, including enhancements tailored for a high-profile three-letter agency. Significant additions to XpertFit include:

Enhanced Security for Anonymous Users: Addressing the needs of agencies with heightened identity protection concerns, XpertFit now supports anonymized sizing processes while maintaining the same industry-leading security measures that have always been foundational to 3DLOOK’s technology.

Seamless Expansion of Measurement Capabilities: Thanks to 3DLOOK’s broad suite of measurements, TSG was able to easily incorporate additional sizing parameters, further improving the size-to-product transformation for Hyper X.

This expansion builds upon Safariland’s history of innovation and commitment to superior protective solutions, further reinforcing the ongoing efforts to expand its product line with advancements like Hyper-X. Initially introduced for soft body armor, the adoption of XpertFit for tactical armor marks the next step in Safariland’s vision to provide law enforcement, military, and security professionals with the most advanced and adaptable sizing technology available today.

“Innovation has always been at the heart of what we do at Safariland,” said Joseph Smith, VP of Product & Technology at Safariland. “Our collaboration with 3DLOOK ensures that we stay at the forefront of technology, delivering solutions that improve the safety and performance of those who rely on our gear. XpertFit is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in protective equipment.”

By integrating 3DLOOK’s AI-powered scanning technology, XpertFit eliminates traditional sizing challenges and enables agencies to leverage a seamless, mobile-first approach to protective gear measurement. This partnership represents the future of fit technology—where efficiency, precision, and cutting-edge AI converge to enhance operational readiness for professionals in the field.

XperFit is a U.S. registered trademark owned by The Fechheimer Brothers Company. For more information about XpertFit and 3DLOOK’s industry-leading AI body scanning solutions, visit 3dlook.ai.

PROJECT7 Ultralight Plate Rack (UPR)—Now Improved and Available Direct to Verified Personnel for the First Time

Thursday, April 17th, 2025

April 16, 2025 – LA VERNE, CALIF. —PROJECT7 Armor is proud to announce the retail release of the improved Ultralight Plate Rack (UPR), a specialized ballistic armor platform built for professionals who demand high performance, low weight, and mission-focused protection. Additionally, for the first time ever, UPR is available for direct purchase by verified sworn law enforcement officers and military personnel through their online retail store at www.project7armor.com.

Originally engineered for high-mobility operations where weight, agility, and reliability are paramount, UPR has earned a reputation as a purpose-driven platform tailored to the needs of specialized units. Whether for aerial platforms, vertical access, maritime operations, or linear assaults, the UPR delivers an ultralightweight solution.

Now Refined with New Capabilities and Enhanced Modularity

The latest version of UPR builds on the original’s “hard armor first” foundation with new features designed to increase functionality without adding unnecessary bulk.

New Features Include:

Internal & External Wire Routing Channels – Integrated cable management options for routing communications equipment and power cables cleanly and securely.

FLEX & FLEXAROO Loadout System Compatibility – Seamlessly scale your platform with modular loadout systems for added storage and mission-specific attachments.

Wider Cummerbunds – Expanded fit and stability, improving balance under load.

Compatible with New 3PC-HA Hard Armor Cummerbund – Supports P7’s new 3PC-HA Hard Armor Cummerbund, featuring internal plate pockets to accommodate 6″ x 6″ rifle-rated side plates for enhanced lateral protection.

“UPR has always been about giving operators maximum protection with minimum footprint,” said Jon Becker, CEO at PROJECT7 Armor. “These enhancements directly address feedback from the field, allowing for greater mission adaptability while maintaining the trusted ultralight profile that makes UPR essential for high-mobility operations.”

UPR continues to be available in 3 platform sizes and 8 cummerbund sizes, creating 24 possible size combinations to ensure precise fit for all operators.

Retail Availability

In a significant change to distribution, the Ultralight Plate Rack and Active Shooter Rack (ASR) are now available for direct retail purchase by sworn law enforcement officers and individual military personnel through verified accounts on project7armor.com. Previously available only through unit or department procurement, this change allows qualified professionals to personally obtain the exact platform that meets their operational needs.

Strengthening the Backbone of Protective Textiles: Insights from Darinka Radic, Managing Director of Mehler Protection Zrenjanin

Thursday, April 10th, 2025

ZRENJANIN, SERBIA (09.04.2025)

Mehler Protective System d.o.o., part of the Mehler Protection brand within the Mehler Systems Group, is the production site located in Zrenjanin, Serbia. Specialising in textiles, this facility focuses on high-quality protective solutions for military, police, and security forces worldwide. As one of three strategic locations within the Mehler Protection brand—alongside Fulda and Königslutter—Mehler Protection Zrenjanin plays a critical role in the Group’s vertically integrated production network.

In a recent interview with Darinka Radic, Managing Director Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, we explored the company’s growth, its role within the Mehler Systems Group, and how it continues to meet the evolving demands of the protective textiles industry.

Q: Mehler Protection Zrenjanin has experienced significant growth over the years. What key milestones have defined this journey, and what drove your recent expansion?

A: Over the years, Mehler Protection Zrenjanin has grown significantly. A major milestone was the opening of our new 6,200 m² production hall in 2024, which brought our total workspace to 9,900 m² and land area to 49,000 m². This modern expansion includes cutting-edge production lines, a showroom, training zones, and a dedicated technology hub. It was driven by increasing global demand and our ambition to internalise more production processes. The expansion enables us to house advanced machinery, improve workflows, and scale our output efficiently—positioning us as a high-capacity production hub for Mehler Systems.

Q: How does this growth translate into workforce development and community impact?

A: We’ve grown from 206 employees in 2019 to 760 by early 2025. Workforce development is key to our success. We collaborate with local textile schools, support dual education programs, and have revived industrial seamstress training. Our on-site training center ensures new hires are well-prepared and continuously upskilled. This not only sustains our operations but also strengthens the local economy and provides long-term career opportunities.

Q: What challenges are currently shaping the protective textile industry, and how are you addressing them?

A: The industry is evolving rapidly. There’s growing demand for advanced multifunctional textiles, rising material costs, and increasing pressure to meet sustainability standards. At Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, we’re addressing these challenges by expanding internal capabilities, investing in alternative materials, and improving energy efficiency. By staying agile and focused on innovation, we continue to meet evolving market demands.

Q: Your current production capacity stands at approximately 3,000,000 minutes per month. How do you maintain high output while ensuring quality?

A: We’ve implemented a robust production planning system, advanced tracking technologies, and continuous interdepartmental collaboration. These tools help us manage resources effectively, monitor workflows in real time, and uphold the highest quality standards throughout production.

Q: What role does automation play in your operations?

A: Automation has been transformative. It enhances speed, accuracy, and consistency while reducing manual steps and human error. This has allowed us to increase efficiency and flexibility across production, enabling us to better respond to customer needs and scale output without compromising quality.

Q: How is innovation embedded in your production environment?

A: We actively invest in next-generation manufacturing techniques and textile innovations. Our adoption of digital monitoring systems enables us to optimise production processes, improve efficiency, and stay ahead of market trends. Innovation is a constant focus—it’s how we future-proof our operations and continue delivering top-tier protective solutions.

Q: What initiatives have you implemented to enhance sustainability?

A: Sustainability is central to our strategy. We’ve introduced energy-saving practices, waste reduction programs, and responsible sourcing of materials. Notably, we installed a solar power plant projected to generate over 200,000 kWh annually. These initiatives reduce our environmental footprint and align our operations with global sustainability standards.

Q: How does Mehler Protection Zrenjanin align with Mehler Systems’ overall strategy?

A: We are a cornerstone of Mehler Systems’ internal production strategy. Our vertically integrated and automation-driven facility supports the Group’s mission to maintain strict quality control, reduce dependency on external suppliers, and respond quickly to evolving customer requirements. Our contribution ensures delivery reliability and product excellence across the Group.

Q: What are your key priorities for the future?

A: Our focus is on scaling production, advancing automation, and fostering continuous workforce development. We aim to strengthen operational excellence and innovation while remaining committed to sustainable growth. Mehler Protection Zrenjanin is built to adapt, and we’re ready for what comes next.

About Mehler Protection Zrenjanin:

Mehler Protection Zrenjanin (officially Mehler Protective System d.o.o.) is the Serbian production facility of the Mehler Protection brand, operating under the Mehler Systems Group. The site specialises in the manufacturing of high-performance protective textiles for military, law enforcement, and security forces worldwide.

As one of three strategic Mehler Protection locations—alongside Fulda and Königslutter—it plays a key role in the Group’s vertically integrated production strategy. With ongoing investments in automation, facility expansion, and production capacity, Mehler Protection Zrenjanin is positioned as a reliable and scalable hub for advanced textile manufacturing within the defence and security sector.

About Darinka Radic:

Darinka Radic is the Managing Director of Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, a role she has held since 2019. She began her career at Mehler Protection in 2009, leading logistics and customs operations, and played a key role in streamlining procedures and boosting efficiency. With previous experience managing a family business in transport, she brought strong leadership and decision-making skills into the corporate world. Under her guidance, the company has experienced continuous growth, marked by expanded facilities, increased production capacity, and strengthened operational performance.

FirstSpear Friday Focus: Cummerbund Roundup

Friday, April 4th, 2025

FirstSpear’s cummerbund offerings provide enhanced modularity, speed, and protection to support a variety of mission profiles. Each cummerbund is purpose-built to enhance FirstSpear’s plate carriers, providing mission-driven adaptability, protection, and rapid gear access.

RIGID CUMMERBUND

The RIGID CUMMERBUND is designed for rapid donning and doffing using 2” Tubes, ensuring compatibility with all Tube sizes. Built to integrate seamlessly with the Instant Access Back Panel, it enhances load carriage efficiency with an exterior 6/12 attachment field for modular pocket configuration. The interior loop field allows for the attachment of FirstSpear’s Ragnar pockets, providing additional storage options while maintaining a low profile.

ADAPTIVE CUMMERBUND

The ADAPTIVE CUMMERBUND is built for maximum flexibility, allowing users to quickly swap between land and maritime configurations using Tubes technology. With Tubes on the front, this cummerbund requires the TUBES™ RETRO-FIT CUMMERBUND, ATTACHMENT PANEL, enabling users to set their fit once without repeated adjustments. Engineered to support soft armor inserts, it provides mission-adaptive protection without sacrificing speed or efficiency and eliminates the hassle of hook and loop, allowing for near-instant transitions between operational setups.

OVERLAP CUMMERBUND

The OVERLAP CUMMERBUND enhances protection by providing additional soft armor coverage where the Tubes connect, ensuring greater security without compromising mobility. Designed for seamless integration with various FirstSpear carriers it optimizes load carriage efficiency. The interior allows users to keep magazines and gear close to the body, creating a streamlined profile ideal for confined spaces and dynamic operations. This cummerbund supports modular attachments through FirstSpear’s 6/12 technology, further enhancing customization, and was designed to benefit users needing expanded magazine capacity beyond front-loading setups while maintaining full vest functionality.

RETRO-FIT CUMMERBUND

The RETRO-FIT CUMMERBUND brings the advantages of 6/12 and Tubes® technology to carriers that use traditional hook and loop flap systems. Designed for seamless integration, it allows users to upgrade their load carriage platform without needing an entirely new vest. This cummerbund supports soft armor inserts and 6″x6″ hard plates, enhancing protection while maintaining a lightweight and modular design. Included in the kit is the OVERLAP CUMMERBUND and all necessary attachment components, making installation straightforward. With its innovative design, this cummerbund provides a secure, adaptable, and modernized fit for users seeking enhanced functionality in their existing carrier systems.

FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting edge-tactical gear for military, law enforcement and those who train.

For more information visit First-Spear.com.

Qilo Tactical’s x Perroz Designs – Safari Collection Season VI

Thursday, April 3rd, 2025

Built for the kind of safari where the animals shoot back.

Safari Collection season VI – “The African Dictator Special” is inspired largely by the sartorial choices of Mobutu Sese Seko who was a Congolese politician and military officer who renamed Congo to Zaire and ruled it for 26 years from 1971 to 1997.

He was well known for donning his iconic leopard print hat.

Drops this Friday, 3PM EDT. All items are made in Canada by Perroz Designs and distributed by Qilo Tactical.

Adept Armor Unveils Ivoryguard, an Ultra-Lightweight Foam Redefining Ballistic and Impact Protection

Friday, March 7th, 2025

Now integrated into the Storm Foundation Plate, Ivoryguard™ enhances durability and energy absorption while making the ultra-light NIJ-III/RF1-rated armor even lighter.

Denison, TX. (March 2025) – Adept Armor, pioneers in next-gen protective solutions, today launched Ivoryguard™: a breakthrough foam technology that defies conventional engineering limits. At just 0.068 gm/cc, it’s lighter than silica aerogel – often called “the world’s lightest solid” – yet tougher than traditional heavy-duty foams used in armor, helmet padding, and other high-impact applications.

In head-to-head tests, Ivoryguard outperformed leading materials by 20-360 percent in weight-adjusted energy absorption. Even that alone positions Ivoryguard as a major innovation in high-performance superfoams – as the lightest heavy-duty foam – but raw performance is only half the story:

Engineered for extremes: Far less temperature-sensitive than the competition, Ivoryguard maintains performance in environments from -40°C to scorching desert heat, and is currently being investigated for use in stratospheric drones operating at -50°C in ultra-high-UVR conditions. 

Built to last: Closed-cell foam structure repels moisture and chemicals while staying odor-free.

Outstanding engineering properties: 180 percent elongation, 2.5 MPa tensile strength, and tear resistance exceeding 45 N/cm – a combination of properties which makes for a material that’s ultra-plastic yet damage resistant.

Adept’s flagship RF1 Storm Foundation Plate now integrates Ivoryguard, shaving another 0.1 lb. off an already featherlight design (down to 2.3 lb.) while maintaining combat-proven 0.9” thickness and NIJ III/RF1 ballistic rating. The result? Military-grade protection that feels effortless to wear, with further reduced backface deformation upon impact.

While born for ballistic challenges, Ivoryguard is sparking a materials revolution.

Aerospace: Ultra-light insulation and structural support for high-altitude drones.

Automotive: Durable crash absorption that doesn’t compromise mileage.

Sports: Helmets and torso protection pads that are lighter, more durable, and easier to care for.

It will become the material of choice for all those who demand protection that offers the best performance at the lowest weight, combined with extreme endurance and top-tier comfort characteristics.

“Ivoryguard closes the ‘impossible gap’ between weight, protection, and resilience,” said Jake Ganor, CEO at Adept Armor. “This isn’t just better foam; it’s a new design language for safety-critical industries.”

Adept is now offering Ivoryguard samples to qualified partners. Defense teams, engineers, and manufacturers ready to leapfrog competitors are invited to reach out.

For more information on Adept Armor or how to request an Ivoryguard sample, visit their website.